What causes P0171 on a Dodge Charger?

Common causes of P0171 on Dodge Charger: Intake manifold plenum gasket leak on 5.7L/6.4L HEMI (Charger/Challenger); PCV system failure causing crankcase vacuum leak on HEMI V8 engines; MAF sensor contamination from aftermarket cold air intake or oiled filter; Exhaust manifold bolt failure creating pre-O2-sensor exhaust leak on bank 1; Fuel injector clogging from carbon deposits on high-mileage HEMI engines.

P0171

P0171 Dodge Charger

Q: How much does it cost to fix P0171 on a Dodge Charger?

Fixes for P0171 on Dodge Charger include: Replace intake manifold plenum gasket with Mopar OE set on HEMI, Replace PCV valve and hoses with Mopar OE; inspect valve cover grommets for leaks, Clean or replace MAF sensor; install OE-spec paper air filter for accurate MAF readings, Replace broken exhaust manifold bolts with ARP studs and new Mopar gaskets, Clean fuel injectors with professional ultrasonic service or replace clogged injectors.

System Too Lean (Bank 1) · Powertrain Code · High · Repair: Moderate

What is P0171?

The engine is running lean on bank 1 — too much air or not enough fuel. Common causes include vacuum leaks, weak fuel pump, clogged fuel injectors, or a faulty MAF sensor.

When the Dodge Charger triggers code P0171 (system too lean (bank 1)), it typically points to an issue in the powertrain system. This is a high severity code, so address it promptly to avoid further damage or safety concerns. Below you'll find the most common causes, symptoms, and repair options specific to the Dodge Charger.

This repair is rated moderate, meaning some experience and specialty tools required.

Diagnostic data on this page is compiled from publicly available repair resources and technical service bulletins. Always have a qualified mechanic confirm the diagnosis before authorizing repairs on your Dodge Charger.

Common Causes on Dodge Charger

Intake manifold plenum gasket leak on 5.7L/6.4L HEMI (Charger/Challenger)
PCV system failure causing crankcase vacuum leak on HEMI V8 engines
MAF sensor contamination from aftermarket cold air intake or oiled filter
Exhaust manifold bolt failure creating pre-O2-sensor exhaust leak on bank 1
Fuel injector clogging from carbon deposits on high-mileage HEMI engines

Symptoms

Rough or unstable idle speed
Hesitation or stumble during acceleration
Engine surging or hunting at idle
Lean misfire under load causing jerking
Poor acceleration response and reduced power
Check engine light illuminated

Recommended Fixes

Replace intake manifold plenum gasket with Mopar OE set on HEMI

Replace PCV valve and hoses with Mopar OE; inspect valve cover grommets for leaks

Clean or replace MAF sensor; install OE-spec paper air filter for accurate MAF readings

Replace broken exhaust manifold bolts with ARP studs and new Mopar gaskets

Clean fuel injectors with professional ultrasonic service or replace clogged injectors

Notes for Dodge Charger

Aftermarket cold air intakes are a frequent cause of P0171 on modified Charger/Challenger HEMIs.

P0171 Dodge Charger

What is P0171?

Common Causes on Dodge Charger

Symptoms

Notes for Dodge Charger

Check Dodge Charger Specs